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Evidence checklist

Morphea / Localized Scleroderma

DC 782138 CFR § 4.118Skin

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 3 collected
Skin biopsy confirming morphea or localized sclerodermaCritical

A biopsy showing excess collagen in the skin confirms the diagnosis and strengthens your claim.

Private provider · independent opinion
Body surface area estimate of hardened skin patchesCritical

A dermatologist should measure all areas of hardened, thickened skin and estimate the total body surface area affected.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking morphea to serviceCritical

A medical opinion connecting your condition to trauma, chemical exposure, medication use, or onset during military service.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

C&P examination

0 of 1 collected
Range of motion testing if skin tightness limits joint movement

If hardened skin over a joint limits how far you can move it, range of motion should be measured for a possible separate musculoskeletal rating.

VA-scheduled · request a copy on VA.govHow to get this →
03

Treatment records

0 of 1 collected
Treatment records (methotrexate, phototherapy, systemic therapy)Critical

Records of all treatments including phototherapy (UVA), methotrexate, or other systemic medications and their duration.

VA or private records · written request
04

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
05

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Skin DiseasesCritical

A standardized VA form capturing skin involvement extent, induration, treatment type, and any functional limitation.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
06

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

What you mark here is saved in this browser, on this device only — not to an account. Changing the target rating shows different items, but never loses what you have already marked.